Hofn is the perfect base for exploring some of Iceland’s most spectacular landscapes. Its proximity to Vatnajökull Glacier, the largest in Europe, means you’ll find top-notch tours for every interest—be it icy adventures or scenic coastal trips. We’re especially fond of the ice cave excursions, which combine adventure, stunning visuals, and expert guides. Visiting these shimmering blue caves is a truly unforgettable experience — no wonder they’re among the most popular tours in the region. For a well-rounded trip, consider the scenic shore excursion to Djúpivogur, which takes you along Iceland’s South Coast, offering a taste of diverse landscapes and local culture.
Quick Overview
This list covers two specialized ice cave tours that take you inside Vatnajökull’s icy depths, plus a scenic shore excursion that showcases Iceland’s coastal beauty. Each offers something different: intimate and adventurous ice cave explorations, or a broader day-trip experience. Check out the details below to find your perfect match.
1. The Original Ice Cave Tour in Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
At number 1, this tour stands out for its small-group experience—limiting the number of participants ensures you get personal attention and plenty of photo opportunities. Priced at $164 per person and lasting around 2 to 3 hours, it offers a deep dive into Vatnajökull’s icy world. The journey begins at Jökulsárlón, where you’ll be fitted with safety gear and transported in a sturdy 4×4 to the glacier’s base, a part of the adventure in itself.
What makes this tour unique is the dynamic ice cave formation process. Since the caves continuously change with the seasons, the guides select the most stunning, safest cave available that day—ranging between 30 and 70 meters in size. The hike into the cave takes about 5-20 minutes on uneven terrain, so a reasonable level of fitness and good outdoor clothing are essential.
Safety is a priority, and guides like Arnold or Sophia walk you through how these caves form and what to expect. Several reviews mention how personalized and attentive the guides are, providing a safe and informative experience. Visitors love exploring the vivid blue ice and capturing incredible photos that you won’t find on many other tours. The tour is ideal for travelers wanting an intimate, hands-on experience of Iceland’s glacial art.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a perfect mix of safety, scenery, and small-group intimacy for those wanting a true ice cave experience.
2. Ice Cave Tour in the National Park of Vatnajökull
Ranking second, this 3-hour ice cave adventure from Jökulsárlón emphasizes exploring inside a naturally formed ice cave—a rare opportunity, since these caves renew each year. The tour includes multiple stops, starting at Jökulsárlón, then visiting Skaftafell National Park, and finally heading onto Vatnajökull Glacier itself.
What makes this tour stand out is its full instruction and all equipment provided, making it accessible even for beginners. The guides are well-informed, with one reviewer praising David’s humor and knowledge. The “large, noisy, bouncy Superjeep” makes the journey fun and adds a real sense of adventure.
Guests often remark on the size and beauty of the caves, describing dazzling blue hues and the full spectrum of icy colors. Since each year’s caves are different, your visit will be a unique snapshot of Iceland’s ever-changing glacier landscape. While it’s slightly longer and arguably more touristic than the first, this experience offers a broader perspective on the glacier’s majesty.
Bottom Line: If you want a guided, full-day adventure inside a glacier’s interior with excellent instruction, this tour provides a memorable, scenic experience.
3. Shore excursion Djúpivogur: Stokksnes-Vestrahorn-Höfn (lunch)
For a different kind of day, this shore excursion is perfect for travelers interested in seeing Iceland’s South Coast. It’s a full-day trip from Djúpivogur, combining visits to the dramatic Vestrahorn Mountain at Stokksnes, a stop in Höfn—famous for its seafood—and an authentic regional lunch. The tour costs vary depending on availability, but it offers a comprehensive look at Iceland’s coastal scenery.
Highlights include the striking Vestrahorn mountain, with its towering peaks and black sand beaches, and the charming fishing village of Höfn, known for its maritime traditions. The itinerary also includes scenic walks and photo stops that showcase the rugged beauty of Iceland’s shoreline. The tour is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed yet visually stunning day outside Hofn, blending natural sights with cultural insights.
While it doesn’t offer the adventure of the ice caves, it’s a great choice if you’re after landscape photography, local flavor, or a leisurely exploration of the South Coast. The tour typically lasts about 8-10 hours and is suitable for most fitness levels.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who prefer a scenic, cultural day out with opportunities for walking, sightseeing, and regional food tasting.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. The ice cave tours (both the small-group Original Ice Cave Tour and the broader Vatnajökull Ice Cave Tour) are ideal if you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime adventure inside the glacier’s icy tunnels. The small-group tour excels for personalized attention and stunning photos, while the larger, full-day tour offers a comprehensive glacier experience.
If you’re more interested in scenery and local culture, the shore excursion to Djúpivogur, Vestrahorn, and Höfn provides a relaxing, picturesque day along Iceland’s coast. It’s perfect for photography, casual sightseeing, and sampling regional foods.
Keep in mind that booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred time slot and availability. If you’re visiting during winter, check each tour’s safety advice and clothing recommendations.
Final Thoughts
Hofn offers a fantastic range of adventurous glacier tours and scenic coastal excursions. For the ultimate ice cave experience, the Original Ice Cave Tour is hard to beat for its intimacy and safety. If you want a broader glacier exploration, the Vatnajökull Ice Cave Tour will give you breathtaking views and inside access to the icy world. Meanwhile, travelers seeking a more relaxed day will enjoy the shore trip to Vestrahorn and Höfn, combining natural beauty with local flavor.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance will ensure you get the time and experience you’re after. These tours highlight why Hofn is one of Iceland’s top bases for exploration—whether inside glaciers or along the rugged coast.